Sharjah University has announced it will grant 60 days of paid maternity leave to its employees, a decision that is sure to bring cheer to any would-be mothers at the organisation. The Federal Labour Law entitles working women to 45 days of maternity leave, a relatively short period when compared with some countries in Europe and elsewhere.
Although the university has only implemented a rule ratified by the emirate in 2011 extending the period from 45 days to 60 days for public-sector employees, it’s a significant move.
Some have argued that long leave periods create an economic and professional disadvantage for women, and a neutral effect on children at best, but other anecdotal evidence suggests otherwise. Many experts believe a short maternity leave can have a negative effect on the process of bonding between the mother and child. It also forces women to make a tough choice between staying at home and pursuing a career.
Balancing the demands of motherhood and work is a difficult task, and working mothers deserve every support – from government and society – to cope with those challenges, which is why other employers should consider following the example of Sharjah University.
